Depends on the usage. For a telephoto zoom, I'd expect most folks want fast autofocus and ergonomics over close focus. I'd guess about 95% of the shots I took with my Nikon 70-200 f2.8 were focused at infinity.

True, but you are probably using your f/2.8 for action type shots and with a fast AF system behind it. This lens is a 1500$ f/4 built to be light weight so it can be easily carried around - in my opinion. Zoom is for flexibility, no? Ability to focus more closely at the tele end is just one more item of flexibility to have.